Most girls get their first period around 11 or 12. However, some girls get their period as early as 9, and some as late as 16. The truth is, every girl is different. But we can assure you that, sooner or later, you will almost definitely get it.

Q: Once I get it, how will I know when it’s coming next?

A: For the most part, girls get their periods every 28 days or so. While some can predict the exact day of their next period, other girls have irregular cycles and may be off by a week or more. You may be even more irregular when you first start getting your period, skipping a whole month or two. This is perfectly normal—nothing to panic over. Says Jerry, 12, “When you first start getting it, you can never predict when it might strike. I once got mine twice in one month.”

Q: I’m terrified I will be caught totally off guard. What can I do?

A: This is the extreme fear for girls. Says Kristi, 10, “I always hear about girls going to dances in white dresses and walking out with a big red spot!” First of all, of the hundreds of letters we received, only three girls said they were busted in public with a surprise stain.

But, OK, there’s certainly a fair chance you’ll be surprised at least one prepped. Keep a few pads in your locker and a sweater you can wrap around your waist, just in case. Our readers also say they keep spares for friends, which is a smart (and generous) idea.

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